Proofreading Tips

Never let any document leave your desk until you have proofread it at least once. Here are some proofreading guidelines provided by Mary Ward Menke, owner of WordAbilities, a writing and editing service:
* Take a break between writing and proofreading. Proofread with “fresh eyes.”
* Always proofread a hard copy. Never try to proofread on your computer screen—when you proofread on the screen, you see what you meant to write.
* Proofread away from your office. When you proofread in the same place you have written the document, you are inclined to make the correction as soon as you find the mistake.
* Always proofread aloud. When you read aloud, you will see mistakes you might overlook while reading silently.
* Get a second pair of eyes to proofread, especially complex documents or documents that will be sent to people outside your company. It’s easier to find others’ mistakes than our own.
For more tips on proofreading, click here.